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Temples

St. Lawrence’s Cathedral

4.6 · 3,569 reviews
Formal and solemn
St. Lawrence’s Cathedral, Trg Ivana Pavla II, 21220, Trogir, Croatia
Interesting facts
1

The cathedral's bell tower was built in stages between the 14th and 16th centuries, resulting in a unique transition of architectural styles from base to top.

2

Radovan's Portal features a famous relief of the Nativity, considered the most significant Romanesque sculpture in Croatia.

3

The Chapel of Blessed John of Trogir was designed by the architect Nikola Firentinac and is celebrated for its ceiling consisting of 19 carved stone coffers.

4

The cathedral's sacristy contains a notable collection of liturgical vestments and historical documents.

5

The original church on this site was destroyed by the Saracens in 1123, leading to the current construction project in the 13th century.

Overview

St. Lawrence’s Cathedral, also known as Trogir Cathedral, is a Romanesque-Gothic basilica located on the main town square in Trogir, Croatia. Construction began in 1213 on the foundations of a previous cathedral destroyed during a Saracen raid. Its most prominent feature is the Radovan’s Portal, a masterwork of Romanesque sculpture carved in 1240 by Master Radovan. The cathedral features a synthesis of Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, and Mannerist architectural styles due to its extended building period. The bell tower, built over three centuries, transitions from Romanesque to Mannerist styles at its summit. The Chapel of Blessed John of Trogir, designed by Nikola Firentinac, houses the saint's sarcophagus and represents a significant achievement of Dalmatian Renaissance art. The interior contains ornate wooden choir stalls, marble altars, and 15th-century paintings. The building is a designated UNESCO World Heritage site as part of the historic city of Trogir.

Photo spot

From the center of Trg Ivana Pavla II, looking up at the detail of Radovan's Portal or from the city walls looking toward the bell tower.

Insider tips

Climb the bell tower for a panoramic view of the Trogir historic center and surrounding Adriatic coastline.

Take time to examine the intricate details of the figures on Radovan's Portal, which depict both biblical scenes and local monthly labor representations.

Visit the Chapel of Blessed John of Trogir located off the main aisle to appreciate the Renaissance masonry.

What to avoid

Do not attempt to climb the bell tower if you have mobility issues or are uncomfortable with steep, narrow stairs.

Good to know

The bell tower may be closed during periods of heavy wind or maintenance.

Etiquette

Modest dress is required; shoulders and knees should be covered. Refrain from loud conversation and photography during religious services.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
45-60 minutes
Best time to visit
Early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and the peak cruise ship crowds.
Address
St. Lawrence’s Cathedral, Trg Ivana Pavla II, 21220, Trogir, Croatia
43.517, 16.251
Get directions
Details
Architectural styleRomanesque-Gothic synthesis
Key featureRadovan’s Portal (1240)

Frequently asked

Plan for about 45-60 minutes to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and the peak cruise ship crowds..

From the center of Trg Ivana Pavla II, looking up at the detail of Radovan's Portal or from the city walls looking toward the bell tower.

Close by you'll find Kamerlengo Castle, Trogir Promenade, ACI Marina Trogir.